Tokyo’s Sensoji Temple’s Kaminarimon Gate Lantern Removed for Repairs; Photo to Replace It Until Mid-November

▲ Kaminarimon Gate of “Sensoji Temple” undergoing reinforcement and renovation works from now until November 15. (Photo / Reporter Huang Shiyuan)

Travel Center / Comprehensive Report

Tokyo’s famous shrine “Sensoji Temple” is carrying out external renovation work in the Kaminarimon area from now until November 15. Some parts of the area around Kaminarimon will only be accessible during limited hours. Additionally, the large red lantern at the entrance bearing the characters for “Kaminarimon” has been taken down for its once-every-ten-years paper re-pasting maintenance. It is expected to be rehung in mid-November. During these two months, visitors to Sensoji Temple will not see the Kaminarimon lantern; instead, a photo of the same size will be displayed in its place.

Frequented by tourists and worshippers alike, “Sensoji Temple” is a must-visit spot in Tokyo. The temple enshrines the “Asakusa Kannon,” believed to be incredibly efficacious, attracting worshippers year-round. As the entrance to the temple, the large red lantern at “Kaminarimon,” completed in 1960, is a symbol of Sensoji Temple. Many visitors take photos with it. Recently, signs of corrosion and cracking were noticed on the Kaminarimon structure, prompting the temple authorities to carry out renovation work. At the same time, the red lantern is also being replaced as part of its once-every-ten-years renewal process. It is expected to be rehung in mid-November.

According to an announcement on the “Sensoji Temple” official website, reinforcement work will be carried out on corroded and cracked sections of the exterior, including those on Kaminarimon. During the construction period, the Kaminarimon Gate will be closed to entry between 9:00 PM and 5:00 AM. It will only be possible to enter through Kaminarimon between 8:00 AM and 6:00 PM.